Clemson Football Practice Summary

August 12, 1998

Clemson, SC – Clemson Head Coach Tommy West put his team through a combined four hours and 15 minutes of practice time during two practices on Wednesday on the practice fields behind the Jervey Athletic Center. The Tigers continue two-a-day workouts in shorts and shoulder pads on Thursday. Friday the Tigers will wear the full uniform for full contact workouts.

“Most of the team fought through the heat and humidity today,” said West. “It was tougher weather wise today than it was the first day. We did have some cramping in the afternoon and I think that is because they are giving effort and going as hard as they can go. Overall, it was a good day of practice.

“We stayed out here a long time today. We will evaluate our practices this evening and come back out for two more practices tomorrow and work on corrections.

“I am please where we are after two days, but I am ready for this team to put on some pads and play football, but we will have to wait until Friday.

West commented on Rahim Abdullah’s selection to the preseason Butkus Award list. He is one of 68 preseason candidates for the award that names the top linebacker in the nation. “Rahim is deserving of preseason honors. He had a very solid sophomore season. He is one of the leaders of this football team. He has leadership skills, he is vocal and the players look to him as a big play guy.”

West also named some other standout players so far. “Corey Hulsey has shown some leadership so far in practice on the offensive line. He continues to work hard.

“I was impressed with Vince Ciurciu at fullback today, he worked through the heat and he has not been accustomed to it in New Jersey (his home). Braxton K. Williams also had a good day, he made some big plays in the secondary. “

West moved Jason Flanders from quarterback to tight end on Wednesday. Flanders, a red-shirt freshman from Mount Pleasant, SC, sat out last season and played last spring as a quarterback.

Running back Travis Zachery missed the afternoon practice after turning an ankle in the morning practice. X-rays were negative, but West did not say when he would return to practice. There were no other injuries.